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The holiday season brings lights, color, and plenty of cheer, and for many homeowners, that means decorating the trees in their yards. A well-lit tree can make any winter evening feel magical, but it’s important to hang lights in a way that keeps your trees protected. With a little care and the right approach, you can enjoy a beautiful display without putting unnecessary stress on your landscape.
One of the biggest things to keep in mind is protecting the bark. Bark is your tree’s first line of defense, and anything that pierces or rubs against it can create openings for pests, decay, or winter injury. Skip the nails and staples altogether. Instead, use soft ties, Velcro straps, or outdoor-rated twist ties, materials that secure lights without cutting into the bark or restricting branch movement.
Choosing the right lights matters, too. LED strands remain the safest and most tree-friendly option. They stay cool to the touch, which reduces the risk of heat damage and keeps branches from drying out. LEDs also use less energy, shine brighter, and last longer which make them the easy choice for both tree health and your electric bill. As you wrap lights, keep them loose and evenly spaced so branches aren’t constricted as they move in the wind.
Before decorating, take a moment to check the tree’s overall health. Dormant trees can handle holiday lights just fine, but trees that are already stressed, from drought, storm damage, pests, or disease, may not. Avoid loading lights onto compromised limbs and be sure to remove all decorations shortly after the season ends. Leaving them up too long can add unnecessary weight, especially if winter ice or snow collects on the strands.
As the holidays come and go, keep an eye on your trees. Watch for signs of stress like cracking bark, unexpected needle drops on evergreens, or broken limbs. Holiday lights shouldn’t come at the cost of tree health. With gentle installation, energy-efficient lighting, and a little seasonal maintenance, you can enjoy a festive yard that’s both safe and beautiful. At Everett Tree Service, we’re here to help you keep your trees healthy all year long, through the holidays and beyond. Give us a call if you are concerned about the health of your trees. Winter is a great time to prune most trees due to the absence of pests and diseases until spring!
